Looking for the best day trips from NYC? Aim for those with less than two hours of driving to make the most of your day.
If you have a car, that’s great! If not, a direct bus or train ride from one of the NYC stations will come in handy. You don’t need to look any further because we’ll be covering them all below.
In each of these cities, we round up three incredible activities and places to visit so you don’t have to plan it yourself.
From history to hiking, from shopping to food, it’s time to let the game begin!
1. New Haven
Just 90 minutes by car or two hours by bus from Port Authority, New Haven offers a quirky, European-touched experience for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.
A short ride northwest along the Long Island Sound brings you to stunning architecture, Gothic heritage buildings, and relaxing parks.
Known as the home of Yale University, this bustling Connecticut gem attracts students and foodies alike with its academic atmosphere and diverse culinary scene.
Yale University Art Gallery
Spanning multiple heritage blocks, the Yale University Art Gallery is a treasure trove for art lovers with statues, pottery, currency, and mosaics since its opening in 1832.
The entrance is free and wait time is barely a thing here.
Plan to arrive early to fully appreciate the over 13,000 pieces on display. Though it may take half a day to see everything, the helpful staff and portable stools ensure a relaxing visit.
Address: 1111 Chapel Street (at York Street), New Haven, CT
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East Rock Park
What’s so special about this 427-acre-old rock ridge?
Just a 10-minute drive northeast of Yale University, East Rock Park, listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, gives you stunning views from a 200-million-year-old ridge.
The park attracts hikers with a challenging 45-minute trail to the rocky bluff. But for a less strenuous visit, a car ride to the top is also available.
Address: 41 Cold Spring St, New Haven, CT 06511
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
In New Haven, pizza is a way of life. The renowned New Haven–style pizza, a thin-crust, coal-fired Neapolitan delight, has taken the States by storm.
Visit Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in Wooster Square, the birthplace of this iconic pizza. Their pizzas are huge, for real!
Try the original New Haven-style pizza if you don’t like sloppy slices that are overly greasy.
If available, don’t hesitate to get your hands on the outstanding White Clam Pizza with fresh clams and bacon!
Address: 157 Wooster Street, New Haven, CT 06511
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2. Stamford
Just over an hour by train on the Metro-North commuter rail from Grand Central Station, the rectangular strip of Stamford offers a gorgeous blend of natural beauty and lively city life.
This Connecticut metropolis is a goldmine of awe-inspiring local arts, a high-end dining scene, and an army of coastal activities to celebrate the sunny days.
Check out these three best places to visit in Stamford to make the most of your day trip from NYC.
Harbor Point
The Harbor Point Boardwalk forms a complete loop around the South End. On sunny days, the majestic skyline reflects dramatically on the water, creating an enchanting view.
There are plenty of resting spots along the boardwalk, allowing you to watch seagulls and dolphins in the distance.
Bedford Street
A day trip from NYC to Stamford is not complete without a getaway to Bedford Street to shop and dine!
This extensive strip north of Stamford is rich in shopping possibilities where local boutiques, retailers, and delectable cafes come in a roll call.
Heavyweights like Fish Restaurant + Bar, Mecha Noodle Bar, and Chez Vous Bistro have turned this heritage street into some of the town’s most renowned convergent points for the best eats.
Cove Island Park
The 83-acre park juts out from The Cove, separating Holly Pond from the north and Cove Harbor from the south.
Today, the park serves as a romantic getaway for Stamford residents with its serene setting to engage in an afternoon walk.
There is a clean sandy beach called Cove Beach North where people boat, walk their dogs, and BBQ.
Address: 1125 Cove Rd, Stamford, CT 06902.
3. White Plains
The history-rich, sleepy town of White Plains is just 45 minutes by car from NYC, with trains from Grand Central to North White Plains taking just over an hour.
Beyond its shopping hubs like the Westchester, Galleria, and Crossroads, White Plains has deep historical ties to the Revolutionary War.
Roam through the White Plains Armory, where the Declaration of Independence was first read on July 11, 1776, and visit the Jacob Purdy Farm House to thrill history enthusiasts.
White Plains Farmers’ Market
Taking over the small strip of Court Street between Martine Ave and Main Street, White Plains Farmers’ Market is an every Wednesday thing where fresh fruits, herbs, artisan bread, and specialties come with good deals.
About 19 vendors are doling out honey, pies, burgers, and organics under the white umbrellas.
The market is closed in the afternoon so make sure you plan accordingly.
Address: 59 Court St, White Plains, NY 10601
Cranberry Lake Preserve
What does this watershed land have in store for you?
Is it a beautiful hike through the forest passing by lakes before landing at the shore of Kensico Reservoir?
Or is it an educational walk seeking birds, turtles, and dragonflies?
The rugged terrain here shelters some of the most amazing biodiversity in all of White Plains, yet less popular to crowds, making forest bathing in peace here an absolute excitement.
Address: 1609 Old Orchard St, West Harrison, NY 10604
Bowlero White Plains
If you’ve had enough from all the hiking, get back to the bowling alley and arcade center of Bowlero on Tarrytown Road to call it a day.
With 56 lanes lit up in neon lights along with awesome eats like juicy wings and monster burgers, Bowlero has been keeping the young of White Plains entertained for ages.
For those that wanna look back on their 80s and 90s past, the arcade lounge housing everything from Mario Kart to Pac-Man will have you in awe.
Address: 47 Tarrytown Rd., White Plains, NY 10607
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4. Delaware River
An hour and 15 minutes west of NYC, the Delaware River offers classic summertime fun like boating, kayaking, and tubing. This major US waterway flows through five states, providing fresh water to millions and hosting abundant wildlife.
In Philadelphia, the waterfront buzzes with activity. Families flock to seasonal parks like Spruce Street Harbor Park and Independence Blue Cross RiverRink.
Nearby, Penn’s Landing, close to the Historic District, features art performances that captivate visitors year-round.
Go Kayaking And Tubing Down Delaware
This historic river has multiple launch points like Barryville, Sparrowbush, or Matamoras. You can rent a canoe or tube there or opt for a day trip from NYC, just over an hour each way.
Some trips include winery visits or picnic lunches. The adventure typically lasts two to four hours, depending on your fitness level and the river’s conditions.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Campers and forest bathers assemble! If you ever make your way down the Delaware River, there’s no reason to miss out on this incredible forested preserve!
Situated on the New Jersey-Pennsylvania border, this area offers museums, extensive trails, and excellent dining options.
Once a renowned summer getaway for city dwellers, it now boasts historic inns that once hosted notable figures like Theodore Roosevelt, Fred Astaire, and Bette Davis.
Spend a whole day exploring or join an organized air tour of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area for half an hour.
Address: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324
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Alba Vineyard & Winery
Alba is an award-winning winery that offers unmatched service on the East Coast, drawing sommeliers and wine connoisseurs from NYC to savor the finest wines!
They offer three flight options: Classic, Red, and Reserve, each featuring four 2.5-ounce samples.
The tasting room is open daily with panoramic views of the estate vineyards and Warren County’s rolling hills.
Outdoor seating in the arbor is available from mid-April to October, and larger groups of up to seven can reserve seating in advance.
Address: 269 County Rd 627, Milford, NJ 08848
5. Trenton, NJ
Though a relatively young country, America is blessed with such a fascinating history.
There are plenty of incredible historical cities sprinkled all over the US where diverse pasts have helped streamline their cultures today.
One such city is Trenton, located in Mercer County on the Delaware River, renowned for its proud past. Trenton blends its historical roots with modern attractions and dynamic culture.
It’s easily accessible from NYC, just a 90-minute car ride or an hour and 35-minute train ride from Pennsylvania Station to Trenton Transit Center.
1719 William Trent House Museum
Just a few blocks away from the shore of the Delaware River, the 1719 William Trent House Museum opens an insightful trip to the past inside a two-story brick house set amidst a romantic environment.
Going strong since 1719, the museum is now recognized as the oldest building that still exists in Trenton, which was once built as the dwelling house of William Trent who established the capital city of New Jersey.
Address: 15 Market St, Trenton, NJ 08611
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Old Barracks Museum
There’s no doubt that the Old Barracks is on the bucket lists of many out-of-towners hitting Trenton for the first time.
With its story traced back to 1758, the museum once served as a military garrison during three major combats of the country before transforming into a lively gallery filled with hands-on experiences.
Today, the Old Barracks is stocked up with replicas, installations, and a rich history that reflects what once happened during the American Revolution as well as the Franco-Indian War.
Address: 101 Barrack St, Trenton, NJ 08608
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Hike the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail
Learning history doesn’t always have to do with museums.
Hiking to a historic canal set behind the woods is another great way to be part of Trenton’s amazing past.
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park is home to at least eight forested trails with various elevation gains and difficulty levels.
You may encounter those as flat as ten feet as the Towpath Loop via Maple Road or up to 633 feet like the Canal Trail.
Not only is it nourished with an incredible biodiversity and valuable wildlife collection, but the State Park also celebrates a colorful selection of outdoor pursuits in a real peaceful setting.
6. Cold Spring
The quickest route from NYC to Cold Spring is via Metro-North Railroad’s Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal, taking just 1 hour and 20 minutes. By car, the drive is only 1 hour and 10 minutes.
This tranquil town lies by the edge of the Hudson River Valley, nourished with history and modern energy.
Begin your day trip mesmerized by the scenic Palisades Parkway, where lush trees line sidewalks leading to state parks—perfect for escaping urban hustle and bustle!
Hit The Trails
The Appalachian Trail is inarguably the most sought-after hike in Cold Spring. It is broken down into smaller sections with various difficulty levels and Anthony’s Nose is one of them.
For those who don’t mind a bit of climbing in exchange for a rewarding view at the end, then the Storm King Mountain hike is an excellent choice that boasts an impeccable wraparound vista over the Hudson River from the summit.
If you’d rather stay close to the city core, you should be able to find plenty of short easy trails just off the side of the road.
These trails walk you through the historical buildings and museums.
Bannerman Castle
Diving deep into the happenings by the shore of the Hudson River may eventually lead you to Bannerman Castle.
A visit to this historical sight can be combined with a kayak tour or a ferry ride setting out from Beacon.
Though mostly wired to the major events of the Revolutionary War, the Bannerman Castle also houses unknown love stories and untold Native American taboos.
Address: 2 Red Flynn Dr, Beacon, NY 12508
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West Point Foundry Preserve
Visitors to the West Point Foundry Preserve admit that it’s a perfect time capsule where the old buildings, ironworks, waterfalls, and amazing fields have perfectly stood the test of time.
All ruins are scattered throughout the foundry, connected to a range of shady trails along the bubbling streams.
Address: 80 Kemble Ave, Cold Spring, NY 10516.
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7. Long Island
Sun, sand, and sea – Long Island is undoubtedly one of the most popular day trips from NYC with just an hour’s ride directly by car.
With the extensive strip of fine beaches wrapping all four directions, Long Island is a heaven on earth for New Yorkers to soak in the waters, eat real good bagels, and survey some of the most expensive mansions in all of the country.
Shore-Side Fun At Long Island’s Best Beaches
If you’re unsure where to go on Long Island, head straight to the beaches! They offer classic sun-filled fun with fantastic camping options and oceanfront dining.
Some beaches are bustling with activities and festivals, while others are quieter, perfect for biking.
Jones Beach State Park stands out as a favorite with well-maintained facilities and moderate waves.
For camping, Lido Beach is ideal with its 190 campsites attracting families year-round.
Seeking solitude? Orient Beach will give you serene turquoise waters, ideal for water sports, wildlife watching, and fishing.
The Adventure Park at Long Island
Experience thrilling adventure at Long Island Adventure Park with 49 ziplines where you’ll soar through lush greenery.
Families, teens, and groups flock here for excitement and to challenge themselves on courses of varying difficulty levels.
Make sure you prioritize safety with a thorough 10-minute briefing by the staff before hitting the ropes!
Address: 75 Colonial Springs Rd, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798
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Explore Greenport
Greenport is a year-round destination on Long Island’s northern fork, drawing wine enthusiasts with its esteemed wineries.
Aside from beautiful flower fields and small farms celebrating local agriculture, the town also boasts a lively shoreline.
Don’t forget to stop by Mitchell Park for a leisure walk to watch life go by or ride the heritage carousel!
These blissful day trips away from the Big Apple are most favored by New Yorker couples.
Do you know what else is underlined on their bucket list? A wonderful date idea! Here are 11 of them to inspire if you’re ever in the mood for a memorable date in NYC.